Question

China is using its economic relations and positive trade surplus as tools to develop potential military power status in Asia’, In the light of this statement, discuss its impact on India as her neighbour.

Answer 1

China's use of economic relations and a positive trade surplus to bolster its military power status in Asia has significant implications for India, given their geographical proximity and historical tensions. Here’s a detailed discussion of how this strategy impacts India:

Economic and Military Expansion

1. Increased Military Spending

   • Description: China's economic strength, fueled by a substantial trade surplus, enables it to invest heavily in modernizing its military capabilities. This includes advancements in naval power, cyber warfare, and missile technology.
   • Impact on India: As China's military capabilities grow, India faces increased pressure to enhance its own defense preparedness, leading to a regional arms race.
   • Example: The development of China’s aircraft carriers and advanced fighter jets increases its ability to project power in the Indian Ocean, challenging India's strategic interests.

2. Belt and Road Initiative (BRI)

   • Description: China's BRI involves massive infrastructure investments in Asia, Africa, and Europe, creating economic dependencies and extending its strategic reach.
   • Impact on India: BRI projects, such as the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), pass through disputed territories, affecting India's sovereignty and security. It also encircles India with a network of Chinese-funded ports and infrastructure in neighboring countries.
   • Example: The development of Gwadar Port in Pakistan and Hambantota Port in Sri Lanka enhances China's naval presence in the Indian Ocean, posing strategic challenges to India.

3. Economic Leverage

   • Description: China's trade relationships and investment capabilities give it significant economic leverage over many countries, influencing their foreign policy and strategic alignments.
   • Impact on India: This economic influence can lead to diplomatic isolation of India in regional forums and create alliances that may not align with Indian interests.
   • Example: China's influence in South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) nations can diminish India’s traditional leadership role in the region.

Strategic and Diplomatic Challenges

1. Border Disputes and Security Tensions

   • Description: China’s military advancements enable more assertive postures in territorial disputes, such as those along the India-China border (LAC - Line of Actual Control).
   • Impact on India: Heightened border tensions require India to allocate significant resources to defense and border infrastructure, impacting its economic development priorities.
   • Example: The 2020 Galwan Valley clash highlighted the ongoing security threats and the need for robust military preparedness.

2. Regional Influence and Alliances

   • Description: China's economic power allows it to forge strategic partnerships and alliances that can alter regional power dynamics.
   • Impact on India: These alliances can limit India's strategic options and complicate its regional engagements.
   • Example: The China-Pakistan partnership, strengthened by economic and military cooperation, poses a strategic challenge to India, particularly concerning security in Jammu and Kashmir.

3. Technological and Economic Competition

   • Description: China’s advancements in technology and infrastructure create competitive pressure on India to keep pace with technological innovation and economic growth.
   • Impact on India: India needs to enhance its manufacturing capabilities, digital infrastructure, and innovation ecosystem to compete effectively.
   • Example: Initiatives like “Make in India” and investments in the technology sector aim to reduce dependence on Chinese imports and bolster domestic capabilities.

India’s Strategic Response

1. Strengthening Defense Capabilities

   • Description: India is investing in modernizing its armed forces and enhancing border infrastructure to counterbalance China’s military power.
   • Example: Procurement of advanced defense systems, such as the S-400 missile defense system from Russia, strengthens India's defense posture.

2. Diplomatic Engagements and Alliances

   • Description: India is actively engaging in strategic alliances, such as the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad) with the US, Japan, and Australia, to counterbalance China’s influence.
   • Example: Increased cooperation with ASEAN countries and deepening ties with the US and Europe support India's strategic interests in the Indo-Pacific.

3. Economic Diversification and Self-Reliance

   • Description: India is focusing on reducing dependency on Chinese imports and promoting domestic industries through initiatives like "Atmanirbhar Bharat" (Self-Reliant India).
   • Example: Efforts to develop domestic supply chains and enhance infrastructure aim to boost economic resilience.

Conclusion

China’s use of economic power to enhance its military capabilities poses significant challenges for India, affecting its security, regional influence, and economic growth. In response, India is adopting a multi-faceted strategy that includes strengthening defense, building strategic alliances, and promoting economic self-reliance to safeguard its interests and maintain regional stability.